No Good Choices
Brad Hawkins
Your name here? State Rep. Brad Hawkins is a conservative who opposes raising the minimum wage and closing tax loopholes to fund schools. He faces another conservative, Jon Wyss, in this open seat for the Senate.
Your name here? State Rep. Brad Hawkins is a conservative who opposes raising the minimum wage and closing tax loopholes to fund schools. He faces another conservative, Jon Wyss, in this open seat for the Senate.
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No one who works hard and plays by the rules should still struggle to make ends meet. Yet too many working people, particularly women and people of color, work two or three jobs and still have trouble providing basic necessities like food and shelter for their families. Additionally, Washingtonians should be able to take care of themselves or a sick child without losing a paycheck. Initiative 1433 would give all workers the opportunity to earn paid sick and safe leave and raise the state minimum wage to $13.50 over four years.
Initiative 1464, known as Integrity Washington, aims to give ordinary people a stronger voice in our government. I-1464 prohibits lobbyists and government contractors from making big contributions to the candidates they are trying to influence. Notably, I-1464 also features an innovative public financing system that will allow candidates to focus their campaigning and fundraising on ordinary voters rather than the wealthy and well-funded special interests.
I-1491 allows families and law enforcement to ask a judge for an Extreme Risk Protection Order that temporarily removes firearms from individuals showing a demonstrated risk of violent behavior. The vast majority of people who commit a mass shooting or suicide show signs of their intentions. Families are often the first to see those signs, but under our current laws they are often powerless to remove firearms from individuals who display violent intentions.
When it comes to consumer fraud and identity theft, we are all at risk – but seniors are especially vulnerable. Initiative 1501 will discourage scams and crack down on criminals who prey on the elderly and vulnerable. I-1501 increases penalties for identity theft and fraud and prevents the state from releasing private information about vulnerable people and their in-home caregivers.
Corporations are not people. Money is not speech. These are two truths that a huge majority of the public agrees upon, and yet the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the opposite when it made Citizens United the law of the land. Initiative 735, known as WAmend, puts our state on the record calling for an amendment to the U.S. Constitution clarifying that corporations are not people, money is not speech, and political donations should be disclosed.
Vote YES on I-735 to tell Congress that Washington supports returning power to the people and common sense to our election rules.
A bipartisan majority of legislators came together earlier this year to clarify that some stand-alone family dental plans can be charged a small insurance premium tax. Legislators passed House Bill 2768 by a vote of 135 to 11. Because of a Tim Eyman initiative, the Legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. Vote to "maintain" this measure.
In order to encourage the use of clean alternative fuel vehicles in Washington, a broad majority of legislators voted to extend an existing tax break for customers who buy the clean energy cars. Legislators voted to pass Second Engrossed House Bill 2778 by a vote of 93 to 47. Because of a Tim Eyman initiative, the Legislature is required to submit any bill it passes that closes tax loopholes or raises revenue to a non-binding advisory vote. Vote to "maintain" this measure.
Every 10 years, the Washington State Constitution requires a bipartisan commission to update the lines that draw state legislative and congressional districts as the population grows and shifts. Senate Joint Resolution 8210 will shorten the time for the commission to complete a redistricting plan by six weeks, saving taxpayers money and allowing voters more time to provide feedback before spring elections. This common sense reform received a unanimous vote from the state Legislature. Vote YES on SJR 8210.
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below ballot measures on your ballot.
Voters need all of the information available about a candidate in order to make an informed decision. While most of us dislike partisan politics, King County Charter Amendment No.
This charter amendment is an important step toward ensuring that all individuals regardless of gender identity are equally represented in our government. Presently, the King County Charter uses outdated masculine language to describe positions such as “councilman” and “chairman”.
Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and equally under the law, regardless of who they are or who they love.
We all want a government that is more accessible, transparent, and responsive to community members.
Everyone deserves equal protection under the law. This charter amendment ensures residents receive the same anti-discrimination protections offered by state and federal law.
The County Council was not elected to play the role of lawyers making complicated land use decisions. Often, though, that is exactly what they are asked to do when developers present their plans.
Many people who live in Snohomish County work during the day, which makes it difficult to attend County Council meetings. This charter amendment requires the Council to hold at least one evening meeting per year in each county district.
Everyone wants an efficient and effective government. This charter amendment would streamline a 60-day time frame for the County Council to confirm or reject CEO appointments by the County Executive. It also prohibits anyone who was rejected by the County from being appointed within one year.
The current process for drawing Snohomish County Council districts is in need of an update. This charter amendment will create a committee and appoint a leader to lead the redistricting process within a timeline.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton made history when she became the first woman nominated by the Democratic Party for president.
Former Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton made history when she became the first woman nominated by the Democratic Party for president.
Since Patty Murray was first elected in 1992, the "Mom in Tennis Shoes" has been an incredible champion for women, working people, veterans, and an economy that works for everyone.
Since Patty Murray was first elected in 1992, the "Mom in Tennis Shoes" has been an incredible champion for women, working people, veterans, and an economy that works for everyone.
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below congressional districts on your ballot.
Rep. Suzan DelBene won a tough race in 2012 to represent the 1st Congressional District, which reaches from Kirkland to the Canadian border.
Rep. Suzan DelBene won a tough race in 2012 to represent the 1st Congressional District, which reaches from Kirkland to the Canadian border.
The only candidates in this race are conservative Republicans who are out of step with mainstream values on many issues. Nevertheless, Dan Newhouse is the better choice in this race.
The only candidates in this race are conservative Republicans who are out of step with mainstream values on many issues. Nevertheless, Dan Newhouse is the better choice in this race.
Tony Ventrella is a popular former sports broadcast journalist and progressive Democrat who is prioritizing getting money out of politics by overturning Citizens United.
Tony Ventrella is a popular former sports broadcast journalist and progressive Democrat who is prioritizing getting money out of politics by overturning Citizens United.
Governor Jay Inslee has been a strong, principled leader on the important challenges facing Washington, including tackling transportation problems, increasing the minimum wage, and fighting global warming.
Governor Jay Inslee has been a strong, principled leader on the important challenges facing Washington, including tackling transportation problems, increasing the minimum wage, and fighting global warming.
State Senator Cyrus Habib has been an effective champion for public education, transit solutions, and gun safety.
State Senator Cyrus Habib has been an effective champion for public education, transit solutions, and gun safety.
Tina Podlodowski is running for Secretary of State to increase voter participation and turnout as the state’s chief elections officer. Podlodowski has spent her life fighting for equality and driving forward progress.
Tina Podlodowski is running for Secretary of State to increase voter participation and turnout as the state’s chief elections officer. Podlodowski has spent her life fighting for equality and driving forward progress.
Elected in 2003, Benton County Treasurer Duane Davidson is the better of two conservative candidates vying to replace outgoing State Treasurer Jim McIntire.
Elected in 2003, Benton County Treasurer Duane Davidson is the better of two conservative candidates vying to replace outgoing State Treasurer Jim McIntire.
Current Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy has run the operations of Pierce County government for eight years, managing 3,000 employees and a $900 million budget. Prior to that, she served as the Pierce County Auditor, where she was honored as the 2005 Washington State Auditor of the Year.
Current Pierce County Executive Pat McCarthy has run the operations of Pierce County government for eight years, managing 3,000 employees and a $900 million budget. Prior to that, she served as the Pierce County Auditor, where she was honored as the 2005 Washington State Auditor of the Year.
Attorney General Bob Ferguson's accomplishments in four years are impressive.
Attorney General Bob Ferguson's accomplishments in four years are impressive.
Hilary Franz is the Executive Director of Futurewise and former Bainbridge Island Councilmember who brings 20 years of experience working at the state and local level protecting working families and communities that rely on forestry, farmland, and waterways.
Hilary Franz is the Executive Director of Futurewise and former Bainbridge Island Councilmember who brings 20 years of experience working at the state and local level protecting working families and communities that rely on forestry, farmland, and waterways.
Rep. Chris Reykdal is a progressive legislator from Thurston County who has been an outspoken advocate for education funding and income inequality issues.
Rep. Chris Reykdal is a progressive legislator from Thurston County who has been an outspoken advocate for education funding and income inequality issues.
Erin Jones is a teacher of foreign languages and African American studies who has won multiple awards for her innovative work to make learning more accessible for students of color.
Erin Jones is a teacher of foreign languages and African American studies who has won multiple awards for her innovative work to make learning more accessible for students of color.
As the state Insurance Commissioner, Mike Kreidler has brought a range of experience to the position and defended the interests of Washington residents against big insurance companies.
As the state Insurance Commissioner, Mike Kreidler has brought a range of experience to the position and defended the interests of Washington residents against big insurance companies.
Your name here? State Rep. Brad Hawkins is a conservative who opposes raising the minimum wage and closing tax loopholes to fund schools. He faces another conservative, Jon Wyss, in this open seat for the Senate.
Democrat Dan Maher is a progressive from Wenatchee who aligns himself with many of Bernie Sanders' ideals. Maher faces an uphill battle against conservative incumbent Rep.
Democrat Dan Maher is a progressive from Wenatchee who aligns himself with many of Bernie Sanders' ideals. Maher faces an uphill battle against conservative incumbent Rep.
Your name here? There are two conservative Republicans - Mike Steele and Jerry Paine - vying for the seat vacated by Brad Hawkins as he runs for the state Senate. Unfortunately, none of them share our commitment to fairness, justice, and equality for all.
Justice Mary Yu served 14 years as a trial court judge in King County, where she presided over hundreds of criminal, civil, and family law cases before Governor Jay Inslee appointed her to Washington’s Supreme Court.
Justice Mary Yu served 14 years as a trial court judge in King County, where she presided over hundreds of criminal, civil, and family law cases before Governor Jay Inslee appointed her to Washington’s Supreme Court.
Chief Justice Barbara Madsen has led our state Supreme Court in a fair and impartial manner through a series of high profile cases. First elected in 1992, Madsen was only the third woman to ever serve on our highest court.
Chief Justice Barbara Madsen has led our state Supreme Court in a fair and impartial manner through a series of high profile cases. First elected in 1992, Madsen was only the third woman to ever serve on our highest court.
Elected in 2010, Justice Charlie Wiggins is highly regarded, bringing his sharp eye for judicial ethics and more than 30 years of law and justice experience to the Supreme Court, where he has written more than 100 court opinions.
Elected in 2010, Justice Charlie Wiggins is highly regarded, bringing his sharp eye for judicial ethics and more than 30 years of law and justice experience to the Supreme Court, where he has written more than 100 court opinions.
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below court races on your ballot. The Progressive Voters Guide may skip recommendations for unopposed judicial races.
King County Pro-Tem Judge Nicole Gaines Phelps brings nearly 20 years of combined judicial and legal experience to the office of Superior Court Judge.
King County Pro-Tem Judge Nicole Gaines Phelps brings nearly 20 years of combined judicial and legal experience to the office of Superior Court Judge.
David Keenan began life as a high school drop-out. Despite a challenging upbringing, he was able to graduate with top honors from law school, and has since dedicated much of his legal career to marginalized communities.
David Keenan began life as a high school drop-out. Despite a challenging upbringing, he was able to graduate with top honors from law school, and has since dedicated much of his legal career to marginalized communities.
Judge Helen Halpert has served on the King County Superior Court since 1999. During her tenure, she has prioritized child welfare cases and addressing domestic violence, serving as the Chief Judge of the Criminal and Juvenile Divisions of the Court.
Judge Helen Halpert has served on the King County Superior Court since 1999. During her tenure, she has prioritized child welfare cases and addressing domestic violence, serving as the Chief Judge of the Criminal and Juvenile Divisions of the Court.
Cathy Moore is a trial lawyer with six years experience on the King County Superior Court presiding in family, juvenile, and mental illness courts.
Cathy Moore is a trial lawyer with six years experience on the King County Superior Court presiding in family, juvenile, and mental illness courts.
Eric Newman is a good choice for King County Superior Court Position 44. Newman is a veteran and trial lawyer who has served for three years on the King County District Court as a judge presiding over hearings and trials in criminal and civil cases.
Eric Newman is a good choice for King County Superior Court Position 44. Newman is a veteran and trial lawyer who has served for three years on the King County District Court as a judge presiding over hearings and trials in criminal and civil cases.
Anthony Gipe is a Gulf War veteran who helped found “QLaw,” the state LGBTQ Bar Association. The King County Pro-Tem Judge and trial lawyer is a longtime volunteer working with homeless and LGBTQ youth.
Anthony Gipe is a Gulf War veteran who helped found “QLaw,” the state LGBTQ Bar Association. The King County Pro-Tem Judge and trial lawyer is a longtime volunteer working with homeless and LGBTQ youth.
Kristin Richardson is a longtime King County prosecutor who has dedicated much of her career to eliminating disadvantages for marginalized communities.
Kristin Richardson is a longtime King County prosecutor who has dedicated much of her career to eliminating disadvantages for marginalized communities.
Judge Mariane Spearman has 31 years of combined judicial and legal experience. She was first elected to King County Superior Court in 2008, and previously served on the Kirkland Municipal and King County District courts.
Judge Mariane Spearman has 31 years of combined judicial and legal experience. She was first elected to King County Superior Court in 2008, and previously served on the Kirkland Municipal and King County District courts.
Cindy Larsen served in the Snohomish County Prosecutor's office for more than 19 years, including time in both the Criminal and Civil Divisions. She currently serves as a judge pro tem on a variety of local municipal courts.
Cindy Larsen served in the Snohomish County Prosecutor's office for more than 19 years, including time in both the Criminal and Civil Divisions. She currently serves as a judge pro tem on a variety of local municipal courts.
Rico Tessandore is a trial lawyer who has practiced law in Snohomish County for 17 years, representing people who have been injured.
Rico Tessandore is a trial lawyer who has practiced law in Snohomish County for 17 years, representing people who have been injured.
Depending on where you live, you may have one of the below school district races on your ballot.
Quality education is the foundation of our children’s futures. The Auburn School District recommends Proposition No. 1, a four-year, $456 million school construction and general obligation bond to keep our class sizes small as our district’s population continues to grow.
Quality schools and a well-rounded education are the foundation of our children's futures. The Franklin Pierce School District proposes Proposition No. 1, a $157 million bond which would improve every school in the district.
Our schools are the foundations of our kids’ futures. Highline’s Proposition No. 1 is a community-led $299 million bond that will provide our students with safer schools, smaller class sizes, and room to learn. Dozens of schools in the Highline School District are structurally falling apart.
Our schools are the foundation of our children's futures. The Kent School District is proposing a $252 million bond to reduce overcrowding and improve schools. It will be used to make practical structural improvements to over a dozen schools in the Kent School District.